Bellbridge Container Café

About the project

A new café is coming to Bellbridge! Soon, residents and visitors will be able to grab a barista-made coffee or a bite to eat while enjoying the stunning views of Lake Hume. Thanks to government funding, a container café will be installed adjacent the public carpark area outside the gates to the Hume Boat Club.

The café will feature:

A fully fitted-out container café capable of serving food and hot drinks.
Landscaping, tables, and umbrellas for outdoor seating.
An artistic mural that complements the surrounding environment.

Council will release an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the café’s operation in early May, with an anticipated opening in September.

Why is this project being undertaken?

The Bellbridge Our Town Place Plan identifies the need to enhance recreational and economic opportunities in the area. This project aligns with key economic development goals by:

Supporting local businesses: Providing a new commercial opportunity for a small business owner or entrepreneur.
Boosting tourism: Enhancing the visitor experience along the Great River Road, making Bellbridge a more attractive stop for travellers.
Encouraging community activation: Creating a welcoming space for residents to gather, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Hume.

Project updates

April 2025

We are currently working on the following timeline:

Expressions of Interest (EOI) release (early May 2025) – Council will invite EOI from potential café operators.
Site preparations (mid-2025) – Installation of the container, landscaping, and mural painting.
Opening (November 2025) – The café is expected to be operational.

May 2025

Expressions of Interest (EOI) commenced with Stage 1 submissions closing at 5:00pm on Friday 6 June 2025.

July 2025

The council published a public vote for members of the community to select the mural design on the cafe. The project remains on track for a September opening.

October 2025

Due to unforeseen service connection delays, the café is now anticipated to be completed by late November 2025. Once power is connected, enabling the installation of security lighting, signage will be placed on the container and landscaping works will be finalised.
Council remains committed to opening the café as soon as possible and looks forward to introducing this vibrant new addition to Bellbridge for the community to enjoy.